Implementing Implants

By Madeline Bishop, PHP Fellow

April 17, 2017

Databyte

A primary goal of the Family Planning 2020 initiative is to “expand access to family planning, information, services, and supplies to an additional 120 million women and girls in 69 of the world’s poorest countries by 2020.”

The contraceptive implant is a progestogen-based birth control method contributing to the possibility of achieving this goal. These small, matchstick-sized rods are placed under the skin of a woman’s upper arm and last from three to five years. The effectiveness, convenience, and recent price drop of the implants makes them an ideal option for women in low-income communities.

Diffusion of innovation is a tricky phenomenon. Good ideas don’t always flourish as quickly as public health leaders and researchers might hope. But on occasions when an innovation does take off, as it appears is happening with contraceptive implants, celebrate quickly. There’s more work to do to make sure those who have gotten on board receive continued support.

Madeline is a student at the Boston University School of Public Health, pursuing certificates in Program Management and Maternal & Child Health. She is particularly drawn to adolescent mental health and development, as well as social enterprise as a tool to address health challenges around the globe. Apart from her seemingly endless list of interests in public health, Madeline enjoys talking to strangers, road-tripping, ocean views, and mountain adventures with her trusty canine companion.